Pancreatic cancer

During active disease or treatment, medical records confirming the pancreatic cancer diagnosis are the foundation of a 100 percent rating. Pathology reports, imaging studies, operative reports, oncology treatment records, and notes documenting ongoing chemotherapy, radiation, or other therapy all show that active malignancy or treatment is present. After treatment ends, the mandatory VA examination six months later becomes the key record. At that point, evidence should document whether there has been any local recurrence or metastasis. If the cancer has not recurred or spread, VA looks at residual disabilities, so records showing lasting effects — such as digestive impairment, weight loss, pain, or other organ involvement — become important. Statements from you or people who know you describing how symptoms affect your ability to work, eat, or carry out daily activities can help show the severity of those residuals at the time of that examination and any examinations that follow.